ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Disturbingly for the people of Tali and Pip-Sorang circles of
Kurung Kumey district, nothing has absolutely changed even after decades of its
establishment.

Though administrative set up of both the circle headquarters were done in 1957 and
1994 respectively by establishing a CD block in each circle, the government is yet
to connect the area by road till date. Head loading is the only mode of transportation
of essential items from Yangte and Tamen area.It takes two days to reach Tali and
five days to Pip Sorang from the last motorable road.

“Due to high carrying charge, the essential commodities and items are skyrocketing,”
said Tali ASM Yukar Yajar.

Reportedly, a match box costs Rs 10 while a kg of salt and sugar is sold at Rs 50
and Rs 100 respectively. Further, cement is being sold at Rs 2000/ bag.

The primitive method of shifting cultivation with outdated technology is still very
much prevalent there due to which food productions are very less as compared to other
districts. The people are completely dependant on PDS items. They eat ‘Tashe’ as
substitute food. “ Though the head load carriage system for PDS items is under operational
in the constituency, its performance is not up to mark owing to several unavoidable
prevailing circumstances,” an govt official said.

“ The ERCs supplied through CPO centers of these two administrative headquarters
are too meager to meet the demand of the consumers because the general public also
depend on CPO Centers for obtaining ERCs, the official added.

The food scarcity and health factor have compelled the local people to migrate to
various urban areas.

The scenario of health sector was not better than PDS. The lone PHC in Tali constituency
is being run by a Homeopathic Doctor posted under under NRHM without sufficient staff
and medicines.

Established in 1961, the Government Secondary School at Tali is functioning without
subject teachers, infrastructure, quarters and hostels for the students.

Due to non release of five months’ stipend of the student, the food and essential
commodities are being supplied to the hostelers by taking loan.

The GoAP needs to release stipend to the students right from primary level to meet
the basic needs of the students, Langpu suggested.

Though the CM Nabam Tuki had announced a Police outpost during his last visit to
Tali, the necessary police personnel and infrastructure are yet not provided..

It is hoped that immediate completion of Tamen-Tali road by providing sufficient
funds and Tamen-Limeking defence road via Tali and Pip-Sorang preferably by BRO would
fulfill the long pending demands of the constituency.

Citizens await completion of water supply project

Prafulla Kaman

RUKSIN, Feb 28: Inordinate delay in completion of mega drinking water project at
Ledum of Bilat circle in East Siang district is causing concern among nearby villages.

The mega drinking water project being executed by the Public Health Engineering (PHE)
department at Rs. 17.42 crore would cover 19 villages spread in Ruksin, Bilat and
Sille-Oyan circles with a population of more tha 16,500. The project which was started
late came to halt after completion of 90 percent of the works. The scheduled period
of completion of the project was April, 2011.

Officials of PHE department pointed towards a legal dispute regarding allotment of
tender against the mega project. Moreover financial crunch after escalation of prices
of the construction materials hit the remaining works. However, steps are being taken
for resumption of construction work and the engineers concerned have assured to complete
the project within this year.

The Assistant Engineer of PHE, Pasighat Sub division Yung Paloh informed that an
additional fund amounting to Rs 2.80 crore under Special Plan Allocation (SPA) has
been approved by state’s planning department, for resumption of the remaining works.

Paloh, who is the project engineer, also informed that men and machines are engaged
for laying water pipelines at river points. As such, there will be suspension bridge
over Peneng and Silley River, while underground pipeline crossing has been equipped
for Dekam River.

Referring to a set of public complaints regarding quality of RCC overhead tank, the
engineer said that he has already instructed the contractors concerned for reconstruction
of such tanks at Rayang and Sille villages. The remaining amount meant for paying
the contractor has been kept pending, he informed.

The main storage tank set up at Ledum village is designed to store 16, 66,000 litres
river water collected from Lesing river.

No entry

Amar Sangno

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Gone are the days when security related issues were not a cause
of serious concern for the authorities of the three western districts, namely Tawang,
West Kameng and East Kameng unlike Changlang and Tirap of the eastern part of the
state.

In the last couple of years the entry of vehicles irrespective of private and government
from Bhalukpong check gate to Assam during night has been restricted by the police
on security reason. The area between Bhalukpong and Charduar is around 30 kilometers
(approx), the most parts of which are covered with dense forest. This area has more
or less become ‘no go zone’ during night. Incidents like robbery are frequently reported
from the area. It is believed that few ultra groups become very active in the area
during night time.

The police source said that earlier the restriction of vehicles was scheduled from
6.30 pm but now it is extended to upto 8 pm. The vehicles plying during late night
have to wait till 3 am for getting green signal from police for onward movement.
The tourists, who have to catch train and flights next day after their bumpy ride,
have to wait till dawn. Sometimes the police release three or four vehicles at a
time with a precaution to go together while passing through the so called death zone.

Speaking to this daily, West Kameng SP SB Tamang confirmed the reports and informed
that this has been done since the last firing incident at Boimara just five kilometers
away from Seijosa of East Kameng on November 8, 2010 where seven people were gunned
down by suspected NDFB militants. Subsequently the Home Department had suspended
all night services.

“Police always suggest people not to travel through the high risk zone during night
time,” the SP said.

Adding more cacophonies to security ground, the SP disclosed that many robbery cases
between Bhalukpong and Charduar went unreported and in most cases pick up vehicles
like Tata mobiles had been the main target of the miscreants.

“Earlier we used to release vehicles in the evening after tying up with Charduar
police with escort but over the last couple of months this has been discontinued,”
added Tamang.

Similar things are also happening with Seijosa of East Kameng district. Most of the
people normally avoid traveling during the night time between Seijosa and Soibari
in Assam fearing for their own security.

It is feared that Tawang and Bomdila would be the worst sufferer in terms of tourist
in-flow if the security scenario is not improved at the earliest.

No magic wand to redress all grievances : Siram

PASIGHAT, Feb 28: Education Minister Bosiram Siram today said that he has no magical
power to redress all the grievances of the people immediately. However, he said “I
am putting my best efforts to eradicate illiteracy and also improve the administrative
system of the education department at all levels.” Siram was addressing the educationists
of the East Siang district at an interactive meeting convened by the DDSE at IGJ
auditorium. While exhorting the educationists to extend support in his endeavour
to improve the education scenario, Siram said that in spite of financial constraint,
much have been done for overall improvement of educational sector in the state.
He mentioned the Education Policy-2010 and implementation of RTE and CCE as remarkable
achievements towards improvement of education.

Siram also appealed the teaching staff to be dedicated in their profession. “They
must have sense of responsibilities to make the students worthy citizens.” He said.

During interactive session, the minister disclosed various upcoming developmental
activities like construction of Sikshak-Sadans, privatization of MDM, enhancement
of stipends, career counseling, phase-wise regularization of SSA teachers and creation
of departmental engineering wing for civil works etc.

Siram, being a local MLA, also advocated to harness hydro potentials of the district.

Earlier, the DDSE Tani Talom highlighted the flagship programmes being implemented
in educational institutes. Talom also presented a developmental report and sought
cooperation for better future of the children.

Speaking on the occasion Arunachal Teacher Association (ATA), East Siang district
unit president Tabung Ering demanded immediate release of salaries of SSA teachers.
He urged the minister to consider all genuine demands under 6th CPC.

DIET Principal Buk Lego, Principals, Vice-Principals and teachers from various schools
of Pasighat, ZPM (Boggong) Okom Yasung were also spoke on the occasion. DIPRO

Reformation of culture prerequisite: Rev. T.G.Rimpoche

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Advocating genuine reformation in culture with changing time and
society, Rev. T.G.Rimpoche, Chairman, Karmik Adhayan Affairs (DOKA) said that when
a culture is reluctant toward reformation it is sure to die.

Attending the 8th foundation day celebration of Meder Nello at Dree ground, Papu
Nallah yesterday, Rev. Rimpoche, delved into deeper philosophy of Budhism. He emphasized
the necessity of an objective in the life to be confident and have self respect.

He appreciated the Apatanis for their sensibility to carry out the reformation of
indigenous faith system through Meder Nello and prayed for the success of the movement
and prevalence of peace and harmony in the world. Swamiji Maharaj Sri Vishwesanandaji,
Secretary, RK Mission Hospital, appreciated the values enshrined in the concept of
the Meder Nello movement.

Gyati Rana, Member Secretary, Meder Nello Council explained the Philosophical concept
of Danyi-Piilo/Donyi-Polo enshrined in the hymens and chanting, the sources, origin
and values of the oral tradition ‘miji-migun’ and the moral values enshrined in it.
He claimed that though it is being practiced informally, Donyi-Poloism is not inferior
to any other organised and formal religions. He propagated practice of indigenous
faith system by reformation with the changing society based on the traditional concept
and values.

Bamin Hinda, Chairman, Meder Nello Council called on all to preserve age-old indigenous
faith and culture, especially folk-tales and folk-lores, documentation of hymns and
chanting and its methods.

Nyishi Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society president Taba Hare claimed Donyi Poloism
has the most pluralistic outlook and have most accommodative attitude.

Dagmo Jini, President Kargu Gangii, also spoke on the occasion.

Earlier, a prayer for universal peace and harmony led by Talyang Tade and Rubu Riika
both Priest of the Meder Nellos was also organised.

A technical session was held in the afternoon moderated by Tasso Grayu a renowned
social worker and Priest wherein Habun Tayu, gave a discourse on oral tradition on
creation of the universe,.

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: The Arunachal Legendary Artistes Felicitation function 2012 to
be held on 29th of this month at IG Park will have special guest in Lou Majaw, the
famous guitar strumming singer from Meghalaya. Majaw who is a big fan of music king
Bob Dylan, has won hearts all over the world with his unique style of singing. Born
in 1947, Majaw comes from the Khasi community of Shillong.

He started his career by singing in bars and pubs for groups like the Supersound
Factory at Kolkata. However in the year 1966 life changed forever for him when he
was introduced to Bob Dylan’s work. He was highly inspired by Dylan’s work and on
24th May 1972 he organized “Dylan’s birthday concert” at Shillong. Since then every
year he organizes the concert as a tribute to his inspiration Bob Dylan. In 2011,
during Dylan’s birthday concert at Shillong, bands from across India including The
Symmetry Clan of Arunachal participated. During stage performances he usually wears
shorts and different pair of socks which set him apart from other artistes. He was
featured in numerous international media including the BBC, The New York Times and
in various international music magazines. But things were never easy for him. He
was born to a poor family who could not even afford a guitar for him. He tried his
hand in various professions but music remained the love of his life and he taught
himself the basics of music.

He is one of the founder members of the band ‘The Great Society’ along with Arjun
Sen, Rudy Wallang and Sam Shullai. Majaw was the soul of this band as besides being
lead vocalist he was also the song writer. The Great Society performed all over
world and acquired cult status among music lovers. However it was disbanded and since
then Majaw has been performing solo.

Meanwhile Majaw has expressed enthusiasm about his visit to Arunachal. “I am looking
forward to visit Arunachal and interact with the beautiful people there. I have
visited Arunachal years ago and have fond memories of that visit,” said Majaw. Music
lovers of Arunachal will get the rare chance to see Lou Majaw, who is considered
to be a pride of the North-East. You just cannot afford to miss this opportunity!!

Altogether 33 players from various parts of State are taking part in the tournament
which would conclude tomorrow.

The two-day tournament was declared open by MLA Kumsi Sidisow in presence of Director
Sports & Youth Affairs D K Dinglow and others in a simple but impressive function
held at SLSA this morning. Speaking on the occasion Kumsi lauded the effort made
by TTA to revive table tennis in the state and expressed the hope that the paddlers
would bring laurels to the state in days to come. He called upon the youths to work
hard not only to earn personal glory but also to bring laurel to the state.

Appreciating the TTA for organizing the first table tennis state level tournament,
Director Sports & Youth Affairs D K Dinglow informed that efforts are being made
by the department to improve the performance of players in various games and sports.
He was hopeful of a bright future in games and sports sector in the state.

TTA general secretary Pasang Dingla while giving detailed overview on TTA and its
objective said that table tennis can earn name and fame for the state, if pursued
sincerely. He expressed the hope that the championship would go a long way in creating
awareness among the people about the sport.

Earlier, the tournament began with a ‘ceremonial start’ with an opening song by the
children of Vivekananda Kendra Vidhyalaya School, Itanagar besides colourful cultural
presentation by school children.

Nyokum Yullo celebrated

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: The reports of celebration of Nyokum Yullo throughout Arunachal
Pradesh are still pouring.

It was an emotional return and nostalgic moment for Apang when he met senior citizens,
gaon burahs and general public at Circuit House, Sagalee earlier. All the people
present there reminisced the bygone years when Apang took the rein of the state as
able chief minister and brought Arunachal into the track of development.

PAMPOLI: Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board
Chairman Jalley Sonam today emphasized on peaceful co-existence with harmony and
brotherhood among various tribes of the state. He was addressing the gathering on
the occasion of Nyokum Yullo celebrations at Nyokum Lapang, Pampoli, East Kameng
district yesterday.

Highlighting the importance of Nyokum celebration, Sonam advised the Nyishi community
to preserve own tradition and custom and called upon one and all to participate in
Nyokum festival celebration to keep alive one’s own identity.

He further said that Arunachal is an ideal place for agriculture and horticulture
activities, but the people could not take up agriculture and horticulture activities
on commercial basis due to lack of technical and marketing support.

He advised the villagers of Pampoli to engage themselves in rubber and bamboo plantations
besides traditional agriculture practice to generate revenue and employment avenues.

Sonam and local MLA Tapuk Taku jointly assured to provide fund for construction of
Rostrum at Nyokum Lapang ground, Pampoli.

East Kameng Superintendent of Police Kime Aya, local MLA Tapuk Taku, ZPM RP Rimo,
NYCC Pampoli patron Dadi Rimo, ASM Dali Rimo also spoke on the occasion. They urged
the villagers to collectively celebrate Nyokum festival irrespective of their religious
belief. Colourful cultural programmes were performed by the students to mark the
occasion.

BOMDILA: MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary for Hydro Power Development RT Khunjuju
attended the Nyokum Yullo celebration at Kameng Club. Exhorting the youths never
to forget ones’ root, he called upon them to preserve and uphold ones’ culture and
identity.

As far as ones’ culture and tradition is concerned, logical changes should be made
and adopted but the winds of the changing times should not prevail upon ones’ better
judgment and the time tested beliefs and practices, he said. Dismayed over the growing
instances of indiscipline among the younger generations, he called upon them to desist
from taking up wrong practices and in doing so; he sought the co-operation of the
people to bring them back on the right track.

Buya, folk dances, performances by the Nyedar Namlo artists from Seppa and community
feast were some of the highlights of the day.

BANA: Participating in the festival at Bana in East Kameng district, WRD, Social
Welfare and Child Development Minister Newlai Tinkhatra said that festivals which
have been celebrated since time immemorial, are the source of life.

Tingkhatra, who was all praise for the scenic beauty of the beautiful Bana valley,
appealed to the people to live in harmony with nature and discouraged killing of
wildlife and deforestation.

Emphasizing on the need of promoting tourism in the state, he said that tourists
will arrive only when the culture and natural beauty are preserved and protected.

He also made the people aware about various schemes of the Social Welfare department
and urged them to avail the benefits.

In his address, WRD Chief Engineer Er. Likar Angu, said “festivals are a part of
our identity and it is the duty of everyone to preserve and maintain own culture
and tradition”.

Further, he appealed to the PRI members, GBs and local public to co-operate with
the water resource department.

PALIN: Nyokum Yullo was also celebrated at Palin with traditional fervor.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Kumsi Sidisow called upon one and all to take responsibility
for preserving culture and identity.

Pointing out the rapid modernization of the society, Sidisow said culture and tradition
should be maintained at any cost as “loss of culture is loss of identity”.

Sidisow further announced Rs 80 lakh for construction of Tourist Circuit House at
Palin and Rs 60 lakh for construction of a cafeteria at Yapap Gyeko.

Secretary, IPR, printing, Indra Mallo Jain advised one and all to celebrate the
festival irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Earlier, Indra visited KGVV school,
Lumba and interacted with the teaching staff and students.

BAMENG: Musical performance by the Orchestra party from Tezpur, folk and group dance
and volleyball competitions were the main attraction of three days Nyokum Yullo celebration
at Bameng from February 24-26. East Kameng Deputy Commissioner Tope Bam and social
worker Demo Dada joined the festivity on February 26.

At Kheel, the headquarter of Toru circle, Govt officials, Panchayat leaders, gaon
burahs and general pubic celebrated the Nyokum Yullo with pomp and gaiety.

Joining the festivity, Toru PWD assistant engineer Tage Likar and HDO Kambo Pago
called upon the people to respect the religious belief of different communities and
promote brotherhood.

The Nyokum was also celebrated with much fanfare at Tarak-Lengdi general ground
in Kurung Kumey district.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion of Nyokum Yullo celebration at Gangte, MLA
Takam Pario called upon the Nyishi people to participate in such celebrations irrespective
of their religious belief. He also sought cooperation of the people for development
of road infrastructure in the area.

Former BCC president Khyoda Raja and Gangte ZPM Taring Bath also spoke on the occasion.

ROING: While attending the Nyokum Festival at Forest Park, MLA Laeta Umbrey said
“Nyishis are not like what they were 20-25 years back. They are today the most dominant
and powerful tribe in the state.” He called upon the Nyishi community to shoulder
the great responsibility to lead the state.

“You are like big brother and your action and behavior will shape the destiny of
your smaller brothers,” said Umbrey.

Critical of the numerous proposals on creation of new districts, the MLA disapproved
the idea of creating new district. “Ideally, Arunachal should have only five districts,’
he said. The only way to bring Arunachal back to right track and proper direction
will be to invoke Article 356 of the constitution in the state, he added.

“This state cannot run with MLA and Ministers because we have failed to deliver ourselves
to people who had complete faith on us,” said Umbrey.

Dr Joram Begi, director of Higher and Technical Education, appreciated the Nyishi
community in Roing for celebrating the festival befittingly.

Zilla Parishad Member Mibom Pertin, Govt officials, local Mishmi, Adi, Galo and Tagin
community took part in the celebration.

Governor makes aeriel inspection

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Arunachal Pradesh Governor General (Retd) J.J. Singh undertook
an aerial inspection of projects under Prime Minister’s economic package today. Accompanied
by Secretary to Governor and Secretary Planning Ankur Garg, Secretary Public Health
Engineering and Water Supply Er. Tomi Ete, Special Secretary (Transport) Sonam Chombay
and Northeast Frontier Railway Deputy Chief Engineer S. Kanojia, the Governor saw
the progress of works of Itanagar Water Supply, Itanagar-Harmoty railway project,
Pare Hydel project and Trans Arunachal Highway. The high level team also saw the
water source of the water supply project, catchment area and pipeline work. During
the hour-long recce, they had an aerial view of the works on railway track.

Interacting with the officials after the aerial inspection, the Governor advised
them to work double shifts to ensure completion of the projects within the time frame.
He said that if there is any problem, they should bring it to his notice. Reviewing
the projects with senior officials, the Governor also suggested for work plan during
rainy season.

Earlier, Secretary Public Health Engineering and Water Supply, Special Secretary
(Transport) and Northeast Frontier Railway Deputy Chief Engineer briefed the Governor
on progress of work.

Secretary PHE &WS informed that the Rs 115.25 crores project, which is funded under
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM ) will be completed by May
2012.

NF Railway Deputy Chief Engineer briefed that test trolley trail will be carried
out by May 2012. Kanojia further informed that broad gauzing will be completed by
October 2012 and trains will be flagged off by end of December 2012.

Since the start of implementation of the projects under Prime Minister’s economic
package, the Governor has been leaving no stone unturned for their timely implementation.
PRO to Governor

Peace pre-requisite for development: Khunjuju

West Kameng Conference Hall inaugurated

BOMDILA, Feb 28: The much awaited West Kameng Conference Hall, built over a span
of around four years and at a cost of Rs 26.72 lakh by District Urban Development
Agency, was today formally inaugurated by local MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary for
Hydro Power Development RT Khunjuju in the DC’s office.

Addressing the gathering at the occasion, Khunjuju prioritizing security and safety
of the people and the area over other issues, impressed on the need to instill a
sense of security and well-being in the minds of the people. Worried over the wrong
trend and practices seen so visibly among the upcoming generations and over the reported
instances of intimidation by a few during financial year ending which was never heard
of in the district, Khunjuju said that peace and tranquility are the pre-requisite
conditions for any development of an area.

“The district administration and police along with the public and PRI leaders including
the Bazaar Committee have their individual and collective responsibility towards
the people of the district and in ensuring peace and tranquility of the area,” he
said.

Summing up his address, Khunjuju called upon the elites of the area to play a pro-active
role in shaping the future of the district. The time and period of posting should
be justified by ones’ contribution towards the welfare of the people and uplift of
the society, he observed.

Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Tashi highlighting the efforts put in by the
local legislator, the district administration and that of the executing agency for
the fruitation of the Conference Hall, allayed apprehensions of the people over the
past few incidents by outlaying the effective mechanism put in force to ensure non-occurrence
of such unruly and uncalled for incidents and to instill a sense of safety and security
in the minds of the people.

Reminding the people of their responsibilities which go hand in hand with one’s right,
he sought co-operation of the people and invited them to be a partner in maintaining
a conducive atmosphere and in the process of development of the area. DIPRO

Frame purposeful schemes for the 12th five years plan: DC

PASIGHAT, Feb 28: East Siang deputy commissioner Talem Tapok today suggested for
“purposeful” schemes in the 12th Five Years Plan.

Chairing a coordination meeting with all the developmental agencies of the district
in the office conference hall, the DC gave emphasis on speedy and timely completion
of all ongoing schemes in the district along with submission of utilization certificates.

The DC expressed his satisfaction over the progresses but instructed them to complete
the pending works on war-footing. He appreciated the medical department and the GH
administration for their works in spite of fund constrains. He informed that General
Nursing Midwifery (GNM) will be started shortly in Pasighat.

Tapok instructed the PHED to emphasize on Total Sanitation Campaign which will help
in improving health and hygiene thereby preventing many vector borne diseases. He
also instructed the Agri and Horti departments to take up suitable schemes after
considering the agro-climatic conditions.

Tapok said that proper motivation and awareness should be provided to the general
public so that they can be part of the development process. He also stressed on departmental
cooperation and coordination to speed up the developmental process.

He informed that all necessary action will be taken to check land encroachments.
He sought cooperation from all in this effort by reporting against the encroachers
on time.

Taking serious note of “donation” collection by various organizations, the DC urged
everyone to discourage such activities.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr. T Taloh DMO appealed all to cooperate with the medical
department in checking malaria, vector borne and other diseases.

Officers from PWD, RWD, Agri & Horti, NRHM, Medical, General Hospital, RD, WRD (Drilling)
and Power briefed about their schemes and projects and their present status. DIPRO

ANYA demands exemplary punishment for fraudsters

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Lauding the efforts of its Kurung Kumey district unit in unearthing
the forgery scam accused, All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA) today threatned to
launch mass agitation against the authority if it fails to expedite the investigation
of the forgery case to recover the total amount of money. ANYA also demanded exemplary
punishment for the culprits involved in the forgery case so that such incident do
not recur..

On the other hand, All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA), Kurung Kumey district unit
urged the state Govt not to grant bail to the arrested persons who were involved
in Rs 2.50 crore forgery case. Further, the ANYA appealed to the authorities to recover
the total amount of Rs 2.50 crore from the miscreants and not to transfer the
officers and officials involved before the settlement of the case. The ANYA unit
to launch agitation like bandh call if the Govt fails to take prompt action on its
demands.

Parsi-Parlo Area Youth Organization (PPAYO) also urged the authorities not to grant
bail to the arrested persons and demanded arrest of all other accused involved in
forgery case.

MLA asks people to imbibe work culture

KHONSA, Feb 28: Khonsa East MLA Kamthok Lowang, who is on a whirlwind tour of his
constituency including those villages bordering Myanmar, asked the people to imbibe
work culture and make a sincere effort to catch up with the people of other more
developed districts in the state. He was addressing the villagers of Kolagaon on
February 26.

He passionately appealed the people to take up beneficial schemes under agriculture
and horticulture saying that the area was climatically and topographically conducive
for growing cash crops which will greatly help earn a substantial revenue. The MLA
urged upon the contractors of various schemes to adhere to the prescribed guidelines
and co-operate with the executing agencies. He also urged the villagers to extend
their fullest co-operation to the state government.

The MLA further asked the parents and teachers to take proper care of the children’s
education adding that no society can progress without education. The HoDs and public
leaders who also spoke in the meeting appreciated the initiatives taken by the local
MLA for over all development of the area. The villagers of Ngonthong village also
attended the meeting.

The next day, the MLA convened another public meeting at New Lainwang village in
which people of Old Lainwang and Jadthung villages also attended.

The MLA in his address asked the people to work hard and be a part of the developmental
processes set on motion by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister
Nabam Tuki.

Earlier, Lowang visited Upper Kolam, Tutnu, Sanliam, Khonsa and Lapnan villages
and addressed a series of meetings in which the MLA highlighted the developmental
initiatives of the state government. The people of his constituency have lauded the
visit of the local MLA to all the villages and expressed their unstinted support
for him in his effort to usher in unprecedented development in Khonsa East constituency.
DIPRO

Vocational training for farmers conducted

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: The College of Horticulture and Forestry (Central Agricultural
University), Pasighat, conducted a vocational training programme for farmers on 'Repair
and Maintenance of plant protection equipments, centrifugal pumps and power tiller
at Sika-Tode village of East Siang district today.

Forty farmers were trained on repair and maintenance of plant protection equipments
knapsack, hand compression sprayers, power tillers. They were also introduced to
the newly available foot, rocker and power sprayers, etc.

A thorough interaction session with farmers with feedback regarding the key topic
was also conducted.

The training sponsored by the department of personnel and training government of
India will continue up to March 2 next.

Altogether 18 Panchayati members of various segments are attending the training programme.

Attending the training programme, Director of Disaster Management YW Ringu urged
the PR leaders to play a leading role in guiding and assisting the community during
any natural calamities.

Meanwhile another week-long training programme on office automation course for the
government ministerial and non ministerial staff is also began here yesterday.

Inaugurating the programme, ATI Director (Training) stressed on the importance of
computer and technology for effective office management.

Solve land encroachment issue amicably: AdiSU

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: The state Labour Commissioner has found a sympathiser in Adi Students’
Union (AdiSU) with the latter appealing to All Arunachal Pradesh Workers Union (AAPWU)
to resolve the govt land encroachment issue involving the Commissioner amicably.

While condemning the act of government land encroachment by the labour commissioner,
AdiSU, however, lamented that the labour commissioner had been singled out on ‘personal
grudge’ as encroachment of government land was going on unabated throughout the state.
The students union demanded the state government to issue show cause notice to each
and every government land encroachers in the state.

AdiSU said that let law take its own course in regards to dismantling of the structure.

Describing AAPWU’s demand for suspension of the labour commissioner as uncalled for,
AdiSU said that AAPWU should refrain from maligning the image of the labour commissioner,
who has rendered service to the state for more than two decades.

APSSACEA threatens pen down strikes again

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Arunachal Pradesh Sarva Shiksa Abhiyan Contractual Employee’s
Association (APSSACEA) today threatened to go ahead with its proposed pen down strike
if their deadlock with authority is not resolved by March 3 next.

APSSACEA said it had temporarily halted their agitation after State Project Director
gave them assurance that the matter would be taken up with Finance Department for
consideration.

The association has been demanding for the enhancement of its salary from existing
pay scale.

Former Times staff dies

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Former senior machine operator cum technician of Arunachal Times
publications, Paritosh Kar died after prolonged illness at around 11 pm yesterday.
Late Kar was 50. He left behind his wife and two sons.

Kar joined the Arunachal Times in 1990 and performed his duty with devotion and sincerity
before his voluntary retirement few years ago due to ill health.

The Arunachal Times family and press fraternity expressed deep shock at the untimely
demise of Kar and conveyed deep sense of condolences to the bereaved family members
and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

Ultimatum

ITANAGAR, Feb 28: Alleging absenteeism by the executive engineer, Yazali PWD division,
All Yachuli Youth Organization (AYYO) gave Lower Subansiri deputy commissioner a
week’s time to either ensure the EE’s availability in office or ask him to vacate
the public office.

AYYO alleged that the EE’s continued absence from duty has badly affected the development
process.

Correction

The Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner was inadvertently mentioned in the ultimatum
served by the People of Dutta village to Padi Richo, local MLA-cum-Parliamentary
Secretary for Urban Development & Land Management for holding a mass meeting with
people of Dutta village and other affected land owners in connection with proposed
extension of Advance Landing Ground (ALG) at Ziro. The mistake is regretted.

After the transfer of Dr. Perme, gynecologist from District Hospital Tezu in August
2011, the department is yet to post any reliever. Due to the neglect of the department,
our mothers and sisters and unborn babies are not getting adequate attention. The
situation is such that many patients are forced to go to expensive nursing homes
at Tinsukia or Dibrugarh by taking loan.

But some are not as fortunate as they are unable to afford expensive medical care.
I appeal and request the concern authorities to please post a gynecologist so that
sufferings of the people are minimized and no lives are lost for want of medical
attention.

Yours,

A citizen, Tezu

Let there be democracy

Dear Editor,

The Society for Development of Cultural & Education, Sera Monastic University, Mysore,
would like to bring following facts to the notice of the people. The two revered
Geshe Scholars who went to Tawang to create awareness among the villagers about protection
of environment, importance of Bothi language & democratic rights and duties as enshrined
in constitution of India were abused, insulted and forced to sign bond without any
rhyme and reasons on 22nd November 2011. They were denied freedom of expression and
they were not allowed to conduct meeting at Yid-Gha-Chozin Culture Centre. This is
unprecedented and needs to be condemned by all.

On Feb 12, the District Administration & the Power Department, Govt. of A.P organized
a general meeting on development of Hydro Power in Tawang. It is reported that meeting
was attended by Minister Tourism & two MLAs of Tawang among others.

The common people were not informed, only selected public leaders who had rented
their buildings to Power Developers & the public leaders who were awarded contract
works by NHPC & other power Developers, attended the meeting. To be precise, it was
one sided meeting. The officials who presented the case for the Power Development
were one sided and not prepared to listen to the voice of common people.

Why there was sudden need for conducting general meeting on Hydro power development
despite the officials and DA's assertion on the completion of public hearings few
years back? When & where public hearing for these 15 Hydro Power were held & who
were the public who had attended such public hearing meetings? Moreover, who had
given the No Objection for construction of such Hydro Powers in Tawang? All these
needs to be answered in a transparent way and people at large have the right to know
what their Govt. is doing.

During the meeting Tsewang Dhondup even pleaded ignorance about the entrance of
NHPC in Tawang district & also pleaded that he didn’t have any idea about construction
of Kangteng Hydro Power and Yusum Power house which falls in his assembly constituency.

MLA Jambey Tashi has been supporter of Power Developers and in favor of power Project
Construction. Has he really analyzed the pro & cons of power project construction
in Tawang district? Is he really capable of taking a balanced view considering his
age? Rev.
TG Rimpoche raised questions and objected construction of Hydro power Projects in
Tawang district when he was sitting MLA in 2007-08 and gave radio talks. In 2007
he talked to the Monks of Mon area studying in Sera, Drepung and Gaden Monasteries
about the harmfulness and damages that will be caused by Hydro power construction
and now how suddenly he has softened his stand against Hydro power construction.

Minister Pema Khandu, has been evasive in his speech and has been diplomatic in his
talk. Will such diplomatic approach fulfill the interest of the public at large in
the long run? Is he really capable of thinking for the future of Tawang? Our beautiful
valleys and mountains will be submerged with our beautiful cultural heritage and
history of the region. Is he aware of such importance?

Rev. Thegtse Rimpoche, spiritual leader was the only one in the meeting who appreciated
the stand taken up by the Monks and common people. He took up the public cause in
right earnest and with sincerity.

Suppression of public voice and coercion are yet again proved to be rampant in the
region when CO Kitpi, berated and warned a young man from Yusum village, for demanding
extensive inclusion of general public and talking on the officials' denial of the
freedom of speech and expression. He acted more like a master than as a public servant.
The DA should send him for proper training as to how to conduct meetings and behave
with public.

We propose that a seminar should be conducted where all stakeholders should be called
and be given chance to present their point of views. The District Administration
should conduct the seminar. The Power Department Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh can also
present their point of view in the seminar. This will be the most democratic way
of resolving the issue as to how 15 of Power Projects along with the Dams / Barrages
should be allowed to be constructed in a small place.

Yours,

Tashi Lobsang

Secretary cum Treasury

Society for Development of Cultural & Education,

Sera Monastic University, Mysore

Be original

Dear Editor,

Anticipated readers like me, being away starves for a glimpse of every little thing
about our home state. So it could be boon to us if The Arunachal Times make efforts
in including some pictures along with the news because even a small picture speaks
more than thousands of words together. Moreover it gives readers the real pleasure
of reading.

And it is for your kind concern that the wesbsite user-interface is very peculiar.
Even the articles are copy-paste from other sites. Please provide relevant information
based upon research. I don't like your idea of pasting TOI article on Chinese objection
of our defence minister’s visit. Since being the local body atleast care to provide
more on our home issues.

Yours,

Gora Kaku

Bangalore

Starving teachers and education

Dear Editor,

Education; it is said is the backbone of society. With education, a person can acquire
knowledge which further entails the person with power; to live with dignity. Teachers
are the pillars of the education. They are forever giving without any expectations
and their students surpass them in qualification and salaries which is all they seek
for. It gives them joy abound. The selfless teachers also have a reason for the service.
Apart from educating the society, they have to tend to their families:

School fees of the children, grocery, petrol, medicines and many other expenses have
to be taken care. Now if they are not paid on time, they have to borrow money from
the shops. Do you think it is good for our society to let our teachers live like
a pauper? The raising interest of the borrowed money, the unpaid due at the shop
will definitely tarnish the image of a teacher.

The fake assurance by the education department is taking its toll on the teachers
and their dependents.

Let me put a question to be answered by the People of Arunachal: would you mind if
the teachers are absent from the school in which your children go to? Yes, I guess
would be the answer. If a person is not paid for the duty discharged since the last
6-7 months, do you think he would be sincere in duty? He has to look somewhere else
to make both the ends meet for the family; whichever way.

Look at the audacity of the DDSE's who keeps vigilance whether the unpaid teachers
are sincerely discharging the duty. The vacations are approaching and the credits
are piling up. Yet, there is no sign of them getting their pay. I am astonished at
the apathy of the government towards the teachers and their families.

My heart bleeds thinking of the status of teachers being reduced to pauper. Even
a student, it seems have more money to spend than a SSA teacher. All I can do is
write and pray that the government will take due care to maintain the sanctity of
the teaching profession. The rest, I leave it to the mercy of the director, education
department to decide how much of an effort, they can put up for the unpaid brave
comrades working under them. May god bless the teachers and their family and bestow
them with the blessings to sustain the pain of working without getting paid; and
to give their family a lot of endurance to bear the shame of taking credit from shops
and loan givers.

Yours,

Thejam,

Itanagar

All email and surface mails must be accompanied with contact numbers and full postal
address. Do keep writing but please make sure that letters are short and to the point.

----Editor

Poor implementation of

BLY project

Christened as Bachat Lamp Yojana (BLY), the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, a statutory
body under the Union Power Ministry, had launched a project in February 2009 to replace
400 million incandescent lamps (ICLs) - the conventional 'light bulbs' - with compact
fluorescent lamps (CFLs) across the country. It is estimated that, once achieved,
this will save the country 6,000 megawatts (MW) of power, or around Rs 25,000 crore.

The BLY scheme envisages providing two CFLs - of 14 or 16 watts - which cost around
Rs 70 each when bought in bulk, to every electrified household, at the highly subsidized
price of Rs 15 per lamp, in exchange for two ICLs.

However, only 25 million CFLs reportedly have been distributed since 2009 where
as the scheme is slated to end in December 2012.

BLY has taken off only in five states: Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab
and Delhi. Only Kerala and the city of Bangalore have so far achieved their targets.

According to ASSOCHAM study, titled, ‘Encashing Lighting Energy Efficiencies – A
National Strategy Document,’ widespread use of new and efficient lighting devices
can save nearly 35,000 megawatt of power. The devices include light emitting diodes
(LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Implementation of this lighting efficiency
option will cost about Rs 50,000 crore.

LEDs have typical efficiencies of 110 lumen per watt and an operating life of 50,000
to 80,000 burning hours as compared to a pitiable 5 to 20 lumen per watt and life
of only 1,000 burning hours for the commonly-used incandescent bulb.

Spreading awareness among consumers, government policy support, standardization of
products, demonstrations and industry involvement are key to bring in attitudinal
changes for successful implementation of the scheme.